From Online Artisan to Physical Store: The Journey of Julia M Illustrates in Omaha, Nebraska

Julia McGuigan, the owner of Julia M Illustrates in Omaha, Nebraska, has shared her journey of starting her business in 2017 and recently opening a physical store in October 2022. She creates reproductions of her original artwork and has faced challenges in predicting her monthly earnings due to the fluctuations in her business.

Julia’s art focuses on pen and watercolor pieces depicting people, pets, and places. Her unique style and dedication to her craft shine through in her work. Despite the uncertainties of being a freelance artist, McGuigan has decided to take on a teaching job to stabilize her income while still pursuing her art business. During the summers, she plans to sell her work at farmers markets where her business tends to thrive. This decision has given her a sense of relief and security, knowing that she has a steady income to support her artistic endeavors.

If you value this type of storytelling, consider supporting Marketplace with a donation to help sustain independent journalism and reporting on important issues that affect us all. Your generosity ensures that Marketplace can continue to provide insightful coverage and analysis that matters to you.